IBM has announced the development of a microchip inspired by the human brain. Of course, all computers have been inspired by the human brain. However, they have in the past been inspired by left brain processes like math and language. The new chips are looking more to right brain processes like sensing and pattern recognition.
In time, IBM hopes to put the two types of computing together to create something a lot like a human brain.
Right now, the new microchips can be used in applications in which sensing is key.
Indramat servo motors, like all servo motors, rely on sensors to provide feedback that lets the drive and control regulate the motor. From the beginning of servo motor technology in the 1800s, servos have used feedback on whatever the technology of the time could “sense,” typically heat or position.
As sensors become more sophisticated, servo motors are able to use more types of feedback, extending the possibilities of the technology significantly.
The new IBM chips also use far less energy than the typical microchip which has been around for half a century. One reason for this is the architecture, which uses synapses and neurons as its model. Instead of running all the time, the chips are able to notice interesting things and respond to them, providing down time and handling information more as human beings do.
Putting out less heat and working more efficiently overall will make these new chips more practical for Internet of Things and Industrial Internet of Things applications.
IBM is sharing the technology in hopes of speeding up innovation, so this technology may be available for practical applications soon.
In the meantime, if your plant works with legacy Indramat motion control, we can provide the support you need. Save our number in your phone so you can find us immediately when you need us.